From the Cayman Islands Department of Immigration

Thirteen Cuban migrants landed in Little Cayman on Saturday, 2 April 2016.

Immigration officials have begun migrant reception and detention protocols. The nine males and four females indicated a desire to disembark in the Cayman Islands after their vessel developed engine problems.  The group was transferred to Grand Cayman on 3 April.

This brings the number of Cuban migrants in Immigration custody to 68.

International law prohibits the Cayman Islands from facilitating illegal migration. This extends to members of the public assisting migrants, on land or in local waters, with food, shelter, transportation, or other forms of comfort. 

Although persons who arrive in such a manner are detained pending a repatriation process, the Cayman Islands Government is responsible for ensuring that they are able to access resources necessary for health and well-being while in custody. This includes food, clothes and medical treatment.

The Immigration Department notes that the restriction on assistance is in part due to the dangerous and potentially fatal journey which such individuals face.

Local laws criminalize acts by any persons who assist or facilitate illegal transportation, harbouring or the movement of migrants, whether or not for financial gain. These acts attract a fine of CI$50,000 and seven years imprisonment.

Migrants are presently being housed at the Immigration Detention Centre.